German coach Ernst Middendorp will arrive in Ghana next month, prompting speculation that he is set to take over struggling Hearts of Oak.

Middendorp was fired as the coach of German Bundesliga side Arminia Bielefeld two weeks ago following a poor start to the season.

The German coach transformed Kumasi Asante in his three years at the club under the Herbert Mensah administration before joining rivals Hearts of Oak in 2004 on a short stint.

He moved to South Africa to lead Kaizer Chiefs before heading back home to take up the post at the Bielefeld.

He saved the Bundesliga side from relegation last season but injuries took their toll this term resulting in his dismissal.

Middendorp will arrive in Ghana few days before the start of the African Cup of Nations on 20 January prompting talk that he will be in the country to revive Hearts of Oak.

But Mensah who has invited the German to country says they will be exploring opportunities in youth developm ent in Ghana.

?I will be coming to Ghana with Ernst mid January to look at a number of opportunities especially in the area of youth development and the way and manner in which players are prepared,? Mensah told Ghanasoccernet.com .

?We have long held similar views on how players should be prepared and managed on the field. The learning curve is continuous.

?I do not believe Hearts have the means or resolve to be able to afford Ernst. Ernst visit is not at the invitation of Hearts.

?Ernst and I are more than brothers. He has proven time and again that if properly equipped and managed that he is second to none in Ghana.?

Other clubs in Germany have been alerted by the availability of the German coach.